When I started doing photography, I always knew that I wanted to capture birth. I have had three homebirths and had a photographer every time. I loved labour. I loved the high I got from it. I loved the empowerment and strength that I never knew I had. I loved the support I received from my partner and from my children who were present. I loved looking back at my photos and all of those old feelings flooded back through my body. When you are going through labour, you are so incredibly focused on one thing and one thing only… getting through it. You forget the small details and looking back is such a beautiful reminder of one of the most magical days of your life.
So, when I spoke with my girlfriend, Heather, about the possibility of capturing her special day, I was more than thrilled. I knew that was exactly where I needed to be. I had no idea how I would make it work with an 8 month old and 2 other kids but I would find a way. Leading up to the birth, there were many check ins to see how Heather was feeling and nerves were definitely flying. I couldn’t wait for this baby to enter this world. I got a text from her early on in the day saying she was starting to feel a lot of cramping so we knew this would be the day. I told her to go for a walk to get things ramped up a bit. I said that I would come over to their house when she was in active labour.
Well, she wasn’t sure when that was and when she finally told myself and the midwife to come, she was definitely in transition. So, we all raced over to their house to find Heather more than halfway there. The midwife showed up about 20 minutes after I did and after a quick assessment, Heather was feeling the urge to push. Her body was ready. She had done all of the work she needed to do. She got into the pool in her living room with her mom and husband by her side supporting her. When Heather took a breath, Lance also took a breath. They did everything in sync. He squeezed, he caressed, he reassured her and he kept her in tune with her breath. She was calm and strong and brave and she breathed him out with such grace and beauty. He was perfect. I was in awe as I stood and witnessed this miracle.
Although I have done it three times, watching someone else birth their baby was one of the highlights of my life. So, thank you Heather and Lance for having me as a part of your team, being a support for you when you needed and allowing me to capture this special moment in your lives. I am truly blessed to have had the opportunity and am excited to share these beautiful images with you. xo
